EJC Urges FG to Prioritize Poverty Reduction Measures

The Economic Justice Coalition (EJC) called on the Nigerian federal government to make poverty reduction a primary measure of economic success during a meeting in Abuja on Thursday. Mr.

Taiwo Oyedele, the Coordinating Minister of Economy, was present at the meeting. The EJC, represented by Executive Director Mr.

Ez Onyekper, highlighted that while macroeconomic stability is essential, it should not be the sole focus. They argued that economic growth must create jobs, reduce inequality, and ultimately improve public welfare.

The coalition also addressed Nigeria's rising public debt, which has reached N87.38 trillion as of June 2023, projecting it could rise to approximately N159.28 trillion by the end of 2025. They recommended the adoption of a "borrow better" framework to ensure that borrowing supports sustainable economic development and is accompanied by transparency and accountability measures.

The coalition emphasized that every borrowed naira should contribute to development rather than merely financing budget shortfalls.